Rex Cao to Return to Hong Kong After Nine Years for Title Bout Against Unbeaten Macau Boxer
SingTao · 1 SOURCES1 day ago6 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong boxing legend Rex Cao (曹星如) is set to make his highly anticipated return to the city where he became a sporting icon, as he prepares to face undefeated Macau champion Jiang Lichang (蔣立昌) for the IBF Pan Pacific Bantamweight Championship on December 19 at Wan Chai's Southorn Stadium . The 39-year-old fighter, currently ranked 15th in the IBF bantamweight world rankings, will step into the ring for his first professional bout in Hong Kong since his 2017 victory over Japanese former world champion Kono Heiwa (河野公平) . After retiring and then returning to professional boxing in August last year, Cao has secured two consecutive wins in the Philippines, bringing his overall professional record to 24 wins, 1 draw, with 15 knockouts . The ten-round championship fight marks a significant moment not only for Cao's career but also for the local boxing community, as he hopes to inspire a new generation of Hong Kong fighters .
Key Points
- IBF-ranked bantamweight star Rex Cao to challenge for IBF Pan Pacific title against unbeaten Macau champion Jiang Lichang on December 19 at Wan Chai Southorn Stadium
- Cao, 39, last fought professionally in Hong Kong in 2017, defeating Japanese former world champion Kono Heiwa; this marks his return after nine years
- Professional record stands at 24 wins, 1 draw, 15 knockouts; returned to the ring in August last year with two consecutive victories in the Philippines
- Training regimen includes daily 10km runs, mountain training, and sparring three times weekly; currently able to complete 6-8 rounds, building toward 10-round championship distance
- Cao acknowledges the nine-year age gap with Jiang, planning to leverage his experience and boxing skills while maintaining peak physical condition through long-distance running
Why It Matters
The bout represents a rare opportunity for Hong Kong boxing fans to witness a homegrown sports hero compete on local soil, potentially reigniting interest in the sport and inspiring young athletes . As local sporting events continue to develop, a successful title fight could strengthen Hong Kong's position in the international boxing community and provide a template for future professional boxing events in the city .
The bout represents a rare opportunity for Hong Kong boxing fans to witness a homegrown sports hero compete on local soil, potentially reigniting interest in the sport and inspiring young athletes . As local sporting events continue to develop, a successful title fight could strengthen Hong Kong's position in the international boxing community and provide a template for future professional boxing events in the city .